Understanding CEFR B1: Your Guide to Intermediate English

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Understanding CEFR B1: Your Guide to Intermediate English

CEFR B1: The CEFR-B1 level is the third level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a Council of Europe’s classification of several language levels. This level is referred to as ‘intermediate’ in common speech, and that is the official level descriptor in the CEFR. Students at this level have progressed beyond the fundamentals, but they are still unable to work or study only in English. In this blog, we will be knowing more about the CEFR-B1 level. 

Understanding CEFR: What Exactly is the CEFR? 

The Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) presents a standardised, six-tiered structure for describing language proficiency across various European languages. 

This framework enables consistent evaluation by learners and educators, promoting transparency and collaboration in language education and assessment. 

The six levels, ranging from A1 (basic) to C2 (mastery), offer a clear and readily understood vocabulary for characterising language skills and facilitating effective communication and collaboration within the field.

What is the Purpose of CEFR?

The CEFR framework is used for: 

  1. Measuring proficiency in various languages spoken in Europe. 
  2. Establishing language proficiency benchmarks for both instructors and learners. 
  3. Providing a common reference point for setting clear expectations and measuring progress in language acquisition. 
  4. Assessing and validating the language proficiency of non-native speakers. 

About CEFR-B1 Level (Intermediate English)

Candidates who have achieved the CEFR-B1 level should be able to understand the main points of clear standard input on topics that they encounter daily at work, school, leisure, and so on. Can handle the majority of circumstances that may arise when travelling in a country where the language is spoken. Can write simple linked writing on themes that are known to them or that they are interested in. Can express events and experiences, as well as aspirations, desires, and ambitions, and offer reasons and explanations for ideas and plans concisely.

CEFR-B1 Level Corresponding Scores 

Taking a high-quality standardised test is the best approach to determine if you have reached the CEFR-B1 level in English. The following is a list of well-known tests and their corresponding B1 scores:

English Proficiency Exams Score Equivalent to CEFR-B1 Level
EF SET41 – 50
IELTS4.0 – 5.0
TOEIC (R&L) Total550 – 780
Cambridge English Scale140 – 159
TOEFL iBT42 – 71
Global Scale of English (Pearson)43 – 58
CEFR-B1 LEVEL
Credits: British Council

What Can be Done with B1 Level Score?

For everyday discussions with English speakers on known themes, a B1 level of English would suffice. People with a B1 level of English can read short reports on common themes and send simple e-mails on issues relevant to their profession in the workplace. On the other hand, a B1 level is insufficient to adequately perform in the English workplace. Someone with a CEFR-B1 level in English, according to the official CEFR guidelines can:

  • Comprehend the major points of clear standard input on common topics faced at work, education, leisure, and other places.
  • Deal with the majority of circumstances that are likely to emerge when travelling.
  • Create basic linked text about themes that are familiar or personal to you.
  • Give reasons and justifications for your beliefs and intentions by describing experiences and events, dreams, hopes, and objectives.

CEFR-B1 Level English Skills

For instructional purposes, the official can-do sentences are split down into smaller parts. This more extensive ability breakdown can assist you in determining your English proficiency or a teacher in determining a student’s proficiency. A student or a candidate at the CEFR-B1 level in English will be able to accomplish all that a student at the A2 level can do, and additionally, he will be able to:

  • Talk about their personal and professional goals for the future.
  • Organize a job interview and a job interview in their field of competence.
  • Discuss their favourite shows and how they watch television.
  • Describe their schooling as well as your future intentions for training.
  • Plan a night out to listen to live music and speak about their favourite songs and music trends.
  • Discuss how to live a healthy lifestyle and share and receive advice on good habits.
  • Discuss dating and relationships, as well as meeting people through social networking.
  • Go to a restaurant, place an order, have a pleasant dinner discussion, and pay for their meal.
  • Discuss workplace safety problems, file an injury report, and explain workplace norms and regulations.
  • Discuss proper responses to unpleasant conduct and how to discuss politeness.

So that was all about CEFR B1. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic.

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FAQs

What can I do with a CEFR B1 level in English?

At a B1 level, you can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. You can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken. You can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. You can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions, and briefly give reasons for opinions and plans.

How can I tell if I’m at a CEFR B1 level?

Several methods can help you gauge your CEFR level. You can take online placement tests offered by language learning platforms or testing organizations. Alternatively, you can understand the gist of everyday conversations and frequently used expressions.

How can I improve my English to reach a CEFR B1 level?

There are many ways to improve your English and reach a B1 level. You can enrol in an English language course designed for B1 learners and use online resources like learning apps, podcasts, and websites that offer B1-level materials.

Visit the Leverage Live page of Leverage edu or contact our study abroad experts at 1800-57-2000 to strengthen your scores and application to secure your spot in your dream college. 

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